How to record a podcast with good sound quality

Anytime you do a podcast, it’s critical to lay down a quality recording. No amount of editing can make a really bad recording sound good. You may have the funniest, coolest, most interesting conversations happening during your podcast. Unfortunately, nobody is going to listen to them if the sound quality is awful.

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Here’s how to make sure you get the best possible sound quality when you record your next podcast.

How to record a podcast with good sound quality

1. Find a quiet place

When you’re choosing a spot to record a podcast, keep in mind four words: the quieter, the better. You can take steps to soundproof your recording space, including adding extra insulation to the walls or installing acoustic panels. Don’t forget to add insulation to any flat surfaces your equipment is sitting on. Even a simple towel on any surface can reduce the “bounce” of your voice. If you can’t do that, just try to use a room that is as noise-free as possible. Close any windows and doors, and turn off any appliances or electronics that create background noise. If all else fails, record in your closet! Your clothes can make for a surprisingly quiet recording space.

2. Use good equipment

You don’t necessarily have to spend a fortune on audio gear. However, you can’t use a poor-quality microphone and expect to achieve crisp, clear sound. Read lots of reviews before spending money on recording equipment. (We have some microphone recommendations to get you started.)

Look for gear that offers some kind of warranty or quality guarantee. Also, be sure to invest in good software to make it easier to record and edit professional-sounding podcasts. There are some good free options as well. Mixing software can help you do cool things in the editing phase that would take lots of time and expertise to do on your own. And if you’d like some free sound effects, those can help, too.

3. Keep the right distance between mouth and mic

One very common mistake people make when doing voice recordings is putting their mouth way too close to the microphone. Be conscious of how far your lips are from your mic, and try to keep them at least 4 inches away (but not more than 12, as a general rule). You’ll probably have to experiment with this to find the right distance for your setup.

Also be aware of moving your head to the right or left as you record. You should stay facing the microphone any time you are talking, and avoid shuffling around in your seat.

4. Don’t talk over one another

If you conduct your podcast with a co-host or have guests on your show, be careful that you don’t all talk at once. This sounds terrible, and your listeners won’t be able to tell who is saying what. It’s a good idea to brief everyone before the start of a podcast. Ask participants to let others finish talking before they begin. Also, it can help to create at least a rough outline for the recording.